New coding guidance: Split/shared, critical care guidelines gone, but coverage remains

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps readers track a Medicare policy transition that affects documentation, claims review, and audit preparedness for certain hospital and nursing facility E/M and critical care services. It is especially useful for practices that need to know which official sources still govern these services while detailed manual guidance is being revised.

Article Sections

1. CMS removes manual guidance and shifts toward rulemaking

   Summarizes the CMS manual revisions and the move toward future public rulemaking. It frames the policy transition and the affected service areas at a high level.

2. Coverage continues during the interim period

   Explains that claims may still be submitted while CMS updates its policies. It describes the general federal and regulatory framework that remains in effect during the transition.

3. MAC and CMS notices on documentation and coding

   Describes the types of interim guidance issued by Medicare contractors and CMS. It also notes where practices are being directed to look for current claims-review and documentation expectations.

4. What to expect from forthcoming proposed rules

   Outlines the anticipated next steps in the CMS rulemaking process. It addresses the timing uncertainty and the likelihood of additional public comment and final policy updates.